Soldiers form bond with Djiboutian caretakers

Sgt. Sarah DeArcy, a civil affairs team medic with C/Co 411th Civil Affairs Battalion, coaches SOS Village D’ Enfants - Tadjoura caretakers on how to perform the abdominal thrust technique during a first aid discussion group here on January 3, 2017. The discussion group covered various medical topics and gave Djiboutians the opportunity to receive hands on training.
(US Army Photo By: Staff Sgt. Gregory Williams C Co/411th Civil Affairs Battalion)

Tadjoura, Djibouti – A cool breeze sets under the blistering sun as kids play in the streets of Elimo neighborhood. Days can be filled with fun and excitement for children living at the SOS Village D’ Enfants compound, but for the caretakers they can be stressful and exhausting. Watching over curious toddlers and monitoring overstimulated kindergartners can be challenging for caretakers who’re responsible for each child’s safety and well-being. In order to enhance its staff’s capabilities, the SOS partnered with a local Civil Affairs team, to form a discussion group that one day can save a child’s life.

Five members deployed to the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) joined members of the Djibouti Armed Forces (FAD) Republican Guard to conduct small-arms training at the indoor firing range located on the FAD installation here, Aug. 28.

The U.S. Marine Corps is arguably one of the most revered institutions within the U.S. Department of Defense. So, when Combined Task Force – Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) leadership recently welcomed members of the Djibouti Armed Forces (FAD) into the U.S. Marine Corps Corporals Course, it was a distinct honor.